Why Croatia!
As we are emerging from under the thumb of the pandemic, many are filled with wanderlust, self-included. However, I began to feed my wanderlust in January with an international trip and then another in April; the latter was Croatia. It was primarily for business to vet the destination, sight inspections, and curate a program.
My experience validated that Croatia is a destination that is a delight and one that any Traveling Culturati would love to visit. The crystal-clear water of the Adriatic Sea, medieval towns with centuries of history and Mediterranean cuisine that is practically farm to table at every turn.
Some still have the image of civil war when you mention Croatia. That was 30 years ago, and Croatia has settled into its own while bringing its centuries of history along. It is no wonder it has blossomed to be one of Europe’s hottest destinations!
Split to Dubrovnik: The Dalmatian Region
Here is where I focused my exploration!
I can see why Croatia has been the location for movies and television series. The seaside locales for “Mama Mia” and the Old Town’s palaces, and forts for “Game of Thrones” and a few episodes of “Below Deck Mediterranean”!
Traveling from Split to Dubrovnik takes you along one of the most beautiful coastlines, and a great way to witness it is from the Adriatic Sea. Just think about it. A small (only 18 cabins) privately chartered cruiser making its way from port to port, visiting small medieval towns, tasting local delights, and enjoying the crystal-clear sea.
Split is the largest city in Dalmatia and is the second-largest city in all of Croatia. To my surprise, there is a Sphinx in Split. I know, right? Hmm? Why and how?
To summarize, Diocletian, a Roman Emperor, was fascinated with Egyptian culture. More specifically, the Egyptian custom of having a sphinx (guardian of the temple). He ordered many sphinxes to be shipped from Egypt for his palace in Split but, there stands only one, right in the center of Split, at the Peristyle and below the Cathedral of St. Domnius.
Dubrovnik is probably best known for its “Old Town”, a well-preserved walled city covered with burnt orange rooftops. A prominent location for the filming of “Game of Thrones”. You can also do a “Game of Thrones Tour. Indeed, a walk around the wall of the walled city is the thing to do. It is 1.24 miles around and will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace. Of course, if you stop along the way to have a cocktail, it will take longer 😉. The walk will take you up above “Old Town” for some fantastic views. You can save your thirst for the end of the wall walk at one of the cafes or bars in the city and do some shopping as well. One of the best bars is Buza, which is under the walls overlooking the sea. An excellent way to quench your thirst after your trek while taking in the scenery.
All the places in between Split and Dubrovnik are charming small towns and islets. A nice reprieve from the busy, typically overcrowded ports visited by large ships.
The cuisine
It is Mediterranean and what I love most about the destination. Yes, I am a foodie! Do they still call it that? Since only a part of Croatia is along the Adriatic Sea, there is plenty of land and sea delights. Local farms that are still family-owned produce wine, olive oil, livestock, truffles, and other local items. I also noticed the passion and connection the people had to their products. To me, that is important.What to eat?
Fresh seafood! I had oysters straight from the bay. Steamed mussels, Fisherman’s stew called Brodetto! Then there is one of the best charcuterie boards I have ever had for breakfast! The cured ham is typically accompanied by cheese. Istrian ham is dry salted with sea salt and other herbs. And everyone talks about Peka! It is a traditional meat and vegetable dish cooked under a terracotta bell covered with hot coals. Peka takes hours so, to enjoy it, you must plan! This brings me to my next love, wine! Here is a little-known fact that Croatians are quick to explain. The Zinfandel grape originated in Croatia. It became popularized in the US, but after DNA was done on the grape, it was Croatian, known as Crljenak Kaštelanski (and Tribidrag). It was brought to California by Agoston Haraszthy, who is known as “the father of California wine,” in the 1850s.
Some other best eats that also make great gifts are olive oil, grappa, and Narancini (candied orange peel), usually served with candied almonds. The candied almonds are popular in the Dalmatian region. A couple of places I visited made the almonds right there in front of me, hot from the pan!
Getting there
Currently, Croatia requires a negative PCR test for COVID obtained within 48 hours of arrival and completion of their health form that you get online 24 hours before arrival. Download each to your phone, and I always recommend having a printed copy as well. Your negative PCR test must be presented to the airline upon checking in, and you must present both upon arrival in Croatia at immigration.
Getting home
Since January 2021, the USA requires a negative PCR test obtained within 72 hours of your return/arrival to the USA. There are several facilities in Croatia, depending on where you are to get the test. Results will be emailed to you, and it’s typically a 24 – 48 hours turnaround. Ask your hotel and/or your ground operator to assist you with identifying a facility and getting there.
NOTE/TIP:
I highly recommend Travelers Insurance for any trip but even more so during the pandemic.
Do not forget to social distance when possible and wear your mask when you cannot or anytime you feel more comfortable doing so!
While getting the COVID vaccine is a personal choice, I recommend it, especially for international travel.
Looking forward to returning to Croatia in August (Summer months, June – September) is the best time to go) when it’s warm enough to swim in the blue waters of the Adriatic Sea. I’m also looking forward to the cuisine! Now, I have that song in my head,🎶 “Saling, Takes Me Away” 🎶
Yours truly,
